A boy in a children’s swimming pool. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
With so many children enjoying swimming in pools this summer, it is important to remember that seconds save lives. This is especially true with young children, due to the fact that they can drown more quickly. often are less skilled at swimming, and other may not notice they are missing until it is too late. Here are some tips to avoid such tragedy when your youngsters go in swimming.
1) Know where young children are at all times. It only takes a minute to lose sight of an energetic two-year-old, only to find that they stumbled into the pool while you weren’t looking. Set down the rules about where they are to go when you are busy, but also understand that a two-year-old does not always listen to reason. Assume they will disobey you at times and test you out. Be aware of all times or have a sibling watch them when you cannot.
2) Build a gate to the pool if feasible. If your pool is surrounded by a deck, consider having a gate built to keep youngsters out when you are not there. For added security, have a locking mechanism on it. Older kids are not as much of a worry. But for the sake of younger kids, a locked gate is well worth the expense in exchange for the peace of mind you will have.
3) Reward kids for responsible behavior around pools. Stress to them that you expect their behavior to be safe and not to horse around too much, where they could slip and fall. When you notice they are respecting your wishes, reward them with added allowance money, free time, or giving up a chore for the week. Behaviors that are rewarded will continue.
4) Enroll older kids in a first-aid course. If older kids are trained to do first aid in a potential drowning accident, they will be that much more likely to save a younger sibling, in the event of a pool incident. If they know the skills and life-saving techniques, it can save a life. It is well worth the cost or inconvenience of having them in a first aid course. There are usually civic organizations which support this and offer classes. Check with your local chamber of commerce office or city hall.
5) Enroll kids of all ages in swimming lessons. It is not necessary for very young children to be Olympic swimmers. But it is important that they know how to “swim to safety” if an incident occurs and they end up in the deep end. Some young children forget which end is deep and jump into the 8 foot side. In instances like this, if a child knows how to swim to safety, someone can pull them up from the edge. But they will not know this unless they are taught. Swimming lessons do save lives.
Remember seconds count! In spite of your best efforts, if a child ends up in the pool and cannot swim, take action immediately. Don’t wait to take off your shirt or put down your keys. Pull the child to safety as quickly as possible and perform first aid resuscitation techniques. A little knowledge and preparation now can save lives. Remember, be careful around the pool this summer. It only takes seconds to lose a life, or to save one.
Cathy Ewing is a professional blogger that discusses swimming related topics. She writes for SwimEx, a leading provider for aquatic exercise pools and home swim spas.
